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NetSuite vs Xero

NetSuite vs Xero

When growth on Xero introduces risk and fragmentation, NetSuite replaces spreadsheets, plugins and multiple instances with an integrated system for finance, inventory and reporting that scales with you.

Built for complexity. Trusted for scale.

  • Consolidate without compromise

    NetSuite brings financials, intercompany transactions and multi-entity reporting into a single environment, without sacrificing local nuance or global oversight.

  • Reduce risk from disconnected tools

    Unify critical functions like finance, approvals and inventory into one system, reducing manual work, spreadsheet dependencies and data blind spots.

  • Strengthen reporting and control

    Move beyond retrospective reporting. With NetSuite, finance teams gain real-time visibility across cash flow, margin, performance and pipeline – so strategy, data and execution stay aligned.

Understanding NetSuite vs Xero

Xero, while effective for basic accounting needs, is more suited to smaller businesses or those at an earlier stage of growth. It is ideal for managing straightforward financial tasks and is particularly effective for single-entity businesses or those with simpler operational structures. NetSuite is a fully-fledged solution ready to accommodate a wide range of industries and business sizes, particularly those navigating multi-entity operations and international transactions.
  • See NetSuite ERP in action

    There’s no better way to explore how NetSuite ERP can benefit your organisation than by experiencing it firsthand.Request a product tour

Where NetSuite extends your capability

Multi-entity management

Centralise operations across global subsidiaries, currencies and tax jurisdictions to support fast, compliant consolidation and reporting at every level.

Inventory & fulfilment

Improve accuracy, availability and customer experience with real-time control over stock, warehouses and order fulfilment.

Finance & approvals governance

Define approval paths, automate workflows and strengthen compliance with built-in controls, audit trails and role-based access.

Strategic forecasting & modelling

Model scenarios, spot trends, and track performance in real time with planning tools built for fast-moving businesses.

Connected workflows

Unify your systems and teams with one platform spanning finance, CRM, supply chain and operations, eliminating silos and duplication.

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Infographic: Comparing NetSuite and Xero

Download our feature-by-feature comparison infographic to see how NetSuite outperforms Xero for complex business needs.

Questions to ask before you choose

Is Xero suitable for multi-entity or global businesses?

Xero is designed for single-entity operations and doesn’t natively support multi-entity, multi-currency or consolidated reporting. NetSuite is built for more complex structures with global tax compliance, intercompany management and real-time consolidation.

How do the platforms handle business growth?

Xero works well for smaller businesses with straightforward needs. As operations grow, businesses often hit limitations around automation, reporting and scalability. NetSuite is designed to scale with you, from small teams to large, distributed organisations.

Can I customise workflows and approvals in Xero?

Xero offers limited workflow configuration. NetSuite gives you native tools to build automated workflows, multi-step approvals and role-based processes without external plugins or middleware.

What are the reporting capabilities like in each system?

Xero’s reporting covers basic financials but lacks advanced forecasting or planning. NetSuite offers real-time reporting, saved searches, dashboards and built-in analytics – plus advanced planning with modules like NSPB.

How does integration differ between Xero and NetSuite?

Xero relies on third-party apps for most extended functionality, which can lead to disjointed workflows. NetSuite has native modules across finance, inventory, CRM and planning, with direct integration options and a consistent data model.

What does the switch from Xero to NetSuite typically involve?

Annexa runs a tailored implementation process based on your structure, data and growth goals. This typically includes detailed planning, system design, data extraction and transformation, configuration of NetSuite to suit your structure and onboarding support to ensure teams can hit the ground running.

Make finance your growth engine with NetSuite

As businesses outgrow Xero, many make the strategic decision to replatform with NetSuite. It brings structure to your operations and visibility to your numbers, enabling you to spot trends early, act decisively and scale sustainably. It’s the platform that keeps strategy and execution tightly linked, even as your business evolves.
  • An infrastructure that scales

    Support growth with systems that evolve with your structure – whether that means new entities, global expansion or increased operational complexity.

  • Strengthen the link between data & direction

    Give your team accurate, timely insights that inform strategic decisions – from investment timing to resource allocation.

Success Stories

Xero to NetSuite transformation stories with Annexa

One platform
Unified 27 Xero instances in NetSuite
Streamlined processes
Replaced 80+ budget spreadsheets
Greater efficiency
Automated reconciliations with NSAR
What’s NetSuite done for us? It’s one world. All of our clinics are in that world.
Dianna Butterworth
CFO
Read full case study
Eight subsidiaries
Across ANZ, Netherlands, Germany, UK, US, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan
Going global
Retail and eCommerce model
Multiple integrations
Across commerce and supply chain
As a high growth global retailer, we needed an ERP that would enable us to manage... a truly global business
Matthew Nott
CFO
Read full case study
Replaced
legacy on premises ERP & Xero
Global jurisdiction
across multiple subsidiaries
Products used
NetSuite
SuiteSuccess
Shopify Plus Integration
Vend POS integration
For us, being able to run a consolidated set of accounts with the push of a button was really critical.
Chris Mitchell
CFO
Read full case study
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Frequently asked questions about NetSuite

Can NetSuite handle multiple business entities under one login?

Yes. NetSuite’s OneWorld architecture allows you to manage multiple companies, currencies, languages, and tax rules in one consolidated platform. That means you no longer need to switch between files or duplicate data entry.

Is NetSuite too complex for a mid-sized business?

Not at all. NetSuite is ideal for mid sized business and scales to fit your needs. Annexa helps configure only the modules and workflows you need today with room to expand as operations grow more complex.

How is user access and security handled in NetSuite?

NetSuite provides granular role-based access controls, SSO options, audit logging and full compliance capabilities – making it suitable for businesses subject to regulatory or investor reporting standards.

Does NetSuite integrate with our other business tools?

NetSuite has a robust API and integration framework. We regularly connect NetSuite with platforms like Shopify, Salesforce, Power BI, HubSpot, and industry-specific systems using native tools or middleware like Celigo.

Will we lose historical data when moving from Xero?

No. Annexa ensures critical financial and operational data is migrated securely and accessibly – so you retain continuity for audit, reporting and analysis.

How long does a typical NetSuite implementation take?

Timelines vary depending on business complexity, but most Xero to NetSuite projects run between 10 – 20 weeks. A detailed roadmap is provided up front.

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Start your journey with Annexa

Request a one-on-one meeting with an Annexa NetSuite expert to discuss your unique challenges and opportunities.

  • ✓ NetSuite ecosystem experts
  • ✓ Leaders in integration
  • ✓ Award-winning team
  • ✓ Strategic partner network
  • ✓ Innovation always